Delhi Education Under Scrutiny: Addressing Inequities in Private Schools

A parliamentary committee has recommended forming an expert group to evaluate the implementation of free education for disadvantaged groups in Delhi's private schools under the Right to Education Act. The committee highlighted issues regarding inadequate SC/ST staff representation in colleges and the DDA housing scheme's allotment shortcomings.

A parliamentary committee focusing on the welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) has urged the establishment of an expert body to examine the effectiveness of implementing free education for disadvantaged groups in Delhi's private schools under the Right to Education Act, 2009.

Led by BJP member Faggan Singh Kulaste, the committee criticized Delhi's previous government for its casual approach to ensuring private schools provide free education only up to elementary level for economically disadvantaged students. It called for a revised policy to continue support beyond Class 8 and an increase in tuition reimbursement fees.

Further, the committee highlighted concerns regarding the lack of SC/ST representation among teaching staff in Delhi colleges, pointing to bias against these communities. It also sought clarification on the DDA special housing scheme's flat allocations to SCs/STs, noting discrepancies in possession statuses.

(With inputs from agencies.)